Module 02
ECG Rhythm Recognition
Recognize every ACLS-relevant rhythm — its significance, treatment, and common causes.
Rhythms You Must Recognize
- Normal sinus rhythm
- Sinus bradycardia
- Sinus tachycardia
- First-degree AV block
- Second-degree AV block Type I (Wenckebach / Mobitz I)
- Second-degree AV block Type II (Mobitz II)
- Third-degree AV block (complete heart block)
- Atrial fibrillation
- Atrial flutter
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
- Monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT)
- Polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (e.g., Torsades de Pointes)
- Ventricular fibrillation (VF)
- Pulseless electrical activity (PEA)
- Asystole
For Each Rhythm, Know
- Recognition criteria (rate, rhythm, P waves, PR intervals, QRS width).
- Clinical significance (Is the patient stable? Is the rhythm life-threatening?).
- Treatment (Which algorithm applies? Medication vs. pacing vs. shock).
- Common causes (Is this primary cardiac, or a manifestation of a reversible cause?).
Shockable vs. Non-Shockable
| Shockable Rhythms | Non-Shockable Rhythms |
|---|---|
| Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) | Asystole |
| Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) | Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA) |
Clinical Pearl
Always confirm pulselessness clinically — a monitor showing organized electrical activity does not guarantee a pulse (PEA).
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